Dance Floor

[Felixir]

At the centre of proceedings, a large, level, hardwood dance floor has been set up for all your basic dancing needs. Music is playing - a playlist full of songs suggested by students (and approved by staff), fast and slow, and from a range of genres and eras, many of which represent one of the five elements that make up the event's theme - though exactly where it's coming from is difficult to say. Thanks to a little bit of hocus pocus, the music seems to flow from the air itself, with pockets around the edge of the dance floor where it's a little quieter. Up above is the open sky - enchantments have been placed around the area in case of rain or a sudden drop in temperature - though drapes, streamers, and light features span the dance floor here and there, many held aloft by magic.

This area offers the greatest appreciation of the decor, especially as the evening starts to darken and subtle glow emitted by the decorations starts to become evident. Each element is represented by a different segment of the dancefloor - by means of ceiling drapes (though there is no ceiling), streamers, flowers, etc - each transitioning seamlessly into the next: Futtering banners bear images of the night sky, subtle animated galaxies, and constellations ... Pale blue, silver, and white ribbons flutter in the soft breeze, alongside delicate windchimes and charmed wisps of cloud ... Blue-green drapes resembling running water flow overhead, with clusters of grey, dark green, and grey-blue streamers decorated with seashells ... Greens, bronzes, and golds hold sway over the area populated with the most flowers and vines (too soon?) and the fragrant pine scents ... Golds, reds, and oranges smoulder, with banners and streamers that ripple in such a way as to seem almost like real fire, like a sunset... the night sky... merging into galaxies once more.

Above the very centre of the dance floor is a levitating light feature, in the style of a dandelion puff; small crystals at the ends of wires provide a twinkling effect, and the fixture itself has been designed to alter its colour to reflect the specific element invoked by the sound waves and the music all around.

A large banner stretches across one edge of the space. It features the four house mascots, each of which embody the element with which they are most commonly associated; badger of earth, snake of water, eagle of air, lion of fire. Gold glitter stars twinkle across the banner. Naturally, the glitter could not be overlooked.

[astrocat]

If there was one part of the dance Ash was not looking forward to, it was the dancing. But it was hard not to dance in a dress that was A. blue, B. pretty, and C. shimmered and looked like the ocean when you twirled. So early in the dance, before the real action had started up, she made her way over to the fire section of the dance floor, avoiding the scented vines and flowers like the plague, and twirled around for a while.

[FearlessLeader19]

The last time they had danced together in front of anyone was at Koen’s wedding during the Christmas break. At that time, it had been Evan who initiated the whole thing by asking Jude. This time around? Jude had stepped it up by nervously asking Evan to be his date to this event. Imagine his relief AND happiness when he received a positive reply!! Needless to say it had put him in a good mood then, a mood which carried over to now - the big evening.

After asking Evan if he was ready for a dance, without thinking, Jude had slipped his left hand into Evan’s right and was leading him to the dance floor. “Do you reckon I need to put a Cushioning Charm on the front of my shoes?” he joked, recalling that Evan had accidentally stepped on his toes numerous times at Koen’s wedding.

Looking around, Jude found himself yet again in awe of the decor. It was all simply breathtaking; every bit of it. He found himself particularly drawn to the banners that depicted constellations - stars happened to be some of his favourite things EVER! Every evening before he went to sleep, Jude had to take a look at them. Not to mention stars decorated his wand. Yes, he was OBSESSED with the stars. Also, it was why he had chosen the aether theme for his clothing. Aether is said to fill part of the universe and stars were a part of the universe. It all worked out in his favour if you asked him.

[emjay]

It should not surprise anyone that Autumn Low enjoyed being the center of attention. So of course the place she headed for first was the dance floor. Not that she was an exceptional dancer - though she was certain she could be if she set her mind to it! - but where better to show off her very handsome boyfriend? Plus, not only did they make a great-looking couple, but the dance floor was the perfect place that she could wrap her arms around him.

Her fingers intertwined with his, Autumn pulled Benjee to the center of the area and turned to him before draping her arms over his shoulders and pulling herself close to him. "I really like this song, let's dance?" A slow one, perfect for getting cozy. And she also really liked the glowy atmosphere. "We don't have to stay too long, if you don't want to. Dance with me a little, maybe get something to eat... and then we can do whatever you want." She kissed him softly on the corner of his mouth. And that included leaving, if he really wanted. Autumn mostly wanted to make an appearance and have a good time with Benjee while they were here, but she also knew that even though she liked to be center of attention, that wasn't something he enjoyed so much. And having a boyfriend was helping her to learn to be a little more compromising.

[SilverTiger]

There had been a moment, even after she had acquired her dress and everything, that Cailyn had thought about not attending the dance. Whether or not she’d had a part in the planning, the almost-seventeen-year-old was still kind of dwelling on her singleness, The discussion she’d had with Blake over the holiday break notwithstanding, she was much too aware of the fact she didn’t have a date. And the feeling that everyone else who was going would have one. Granted, she could have always asked her brother, and they could have gone as a twin date. As each other’s wingpeople, even. But she hadn’t, and she wasn’t even sure if Wyn was there to see how amazing Val looked.

She was just going to pretend that she wasn’t dwelling. Actually, she felt very much not herself in the diaphanous pale mist that was her dress, but she felt pretty. And on theme, in some way or another. Maybe air, or aether, or ice. One of those or maybe more than one. Hopefully nobody would ask.

Either way, with a bit of a wave in the direction of Jude and Evan, she headed over to where Ash was twirling. Mainly because, as she’d guessed, so far everyone else seemed paired up. “Mind if I join you?,” she asked the Ravenclaw, twirling a bit to come up alongside her.

[sweetpinkpixie]

SPOILER!!: Autumnumnumnum ... he hates me

Quote:

Originally Posted by emjay

It should not surprise anyone that Autumn Low enjoyed being the center of attention. So of course the place she headed for first was the dance floor. Not that she was an exceptional dancer - though she was certain she could be if she set her mind to it! - but where better to show off her very handsome boyfriend? Plus, not only did they make a great-looking couple, but the dance floor was the perfect place that she could wrap her arms around him.

Her fingers intertwined with his, Autumn pulled Benjee to the center of the area and turned to him before draping her arms over his shoulders and pulling herself close to him. "I really like this song, let's dance?" A slow one, perfect for getting cozy. And she also really liked the glowy atmosphere. "We don't have to stay too long, if you don't want to. Dance with me a little, maybe get something to eat... and then we can do whatever you want." She kissed him softly on the corner of his mouth. And that included leaving, if he really wanted. Autumn mostly wanted to make an appearance and have a good time with Benjee while they were here, but she also knew that even though she liked to be center of attention, that wasn't something he enjoyed so much. And having a boyfriend was helping her to learn to be a little more compromising.

Benjee Marchbanks enjoyed being the center of attention selectively. Championing a gobstones match and holding interviews with the press? Absolutely. He drank all that up and looked forward to every summer season and mentorship because of it. The majority of his Hogwarts years had felt like a certain scrutinizing spotlight that he did not much care for and why he was still very selective with the company with which he kept. It was a harsh line...but it had been an essential one. Most stares prior to Autumn had been a source of insecurity, particularly because of his eye and the insecurities he projected on to things. Riding himself of the eye patch had been the first step...and tonight, while he did not want to be in the ruddy middle of the dance floor, he was certainly not shying away from any attention considering the choice of white attire.

So...middle of the dance floor it was. Usually he only did his dancing in the Great Hall.

"If we must," he groaned in pseudo reluctance, not really all that miserable about attending the dance as some may have thought. He was mostly indifferent to the whole thing, though now that he was here he did find that he liked the atmosphere much better than any shindig any of his peers had thrown over the years. One arm around her wait, his other hand moved to adjust a certain star pendant around her neck since the clasp had come back around front. Smirking just a little at that kiss, he traced his fingers along her shoulder and then down her side to join his other hand at the small of her back as they...danced. It was more like swaying, he supposed, as opposed to dancing...which he actually knew a tiny bit about thanks to being Karleigh's spotter from time to time. Swaying wasn't so hard. "It's not so torturous being here," he replied with an almost playful sigh. "I may even be so inclined to dance with you a lot," he teased while attempting to dip into that very limited dance arsenal of his as he pivoted back from her and attempted to spin her. "We have the rest of the night to do whatever."

His eye did look around for a certain Little Shadow with who he owed a dance to...and also his little cousin, Phoenix. Phoenix would likely not mind a dance with his girlfriend and it would be convenient for himself.


ꕤ••┈┈┈┈┈••ꕤ

His dress robes were still up in the dorm where they had been for some time now. Atlas wasn't even sure now why he had brought them to school in the first place. Something had come over him ever since that first dance meeting, being heard and having his own thoughts and ideas built upon, that had swept him up in the same but also very different rush of exhilaration about the whole social event. And yet, somehow, the social aspect had been entirely lost on him until it had been too late. His attention and hyperfixation on creation and execution had him staying up late and hidden under the duvet by wandlight as he drafted design after design for decorations and other practical matters for the dance. And he was proud, so proud of his design and what he had built (with a little help from Violet)...but...at a cost?

Loneliness was not an uncommon feeling. It and its companion of solitude had long since made a home in his chest ... and tonight their echoes were deafening.

He wasn't sure if Aries would come join him or not, his brother being completely indifferent to the whole dance and waiting for him back in their dormitory for another round of exploding snap or some other game of his older brother's choosing once he returned, but Atlas had wanted too see for himself just how the dandelion fixture looked in action.

So...he was here. Hands in his pockets and backwards baseball cap...here. Just on the perimeter of the dance floor and an ear's shot away, ish, from Ashley and Cailyn...though he dared not interrupt. He mentally tried not to gag at the cozy couple right smack in the middle of the dance floor (the last place he wanted to find himself tonight) and soon his gaze briefly caught sight of Evan and Jude with a certain...pang settling in his chest that quickly had him looking upwards at the very object he had come all the way down here to see.

"...wow..."

...it...looked even better than he had imagined...

[astrocat]

Ash didn't mind being alone. She twirled around in her ocean dress until she was dizzy, ignoring the other paired-up dancers(although she did see Evan and Jude out the corner of her eye, and made a note to say hi later). She twirled around until it was surprising that she was still on her feet, until a voice came up beside her. It took her a moment to locate where the voice was coming from(Cailyn). Oh? "Of course I don't mind. We can twirl together! I'm water, and you're the air- you look great by the way." Ash was in a particularly good mood, and she was here to compliment anyone and everyone. Even Atlas, who was standing off to the side by himself. She didn't come over though- she thought he didn't like her much. Shame. His designs were really nice and so was his hat. She turned back to Cailyn. "Planning a dance was a really good idea, don't you think? Food and friendship and beautiful dresses always makes me feel better." She twirled around once more. She was wearing a twirly dress. She had to twirl every five minutes OR ELSE.

[Charely Potter]

Caes ordinarily wasn't one to socialize in a public event unless he had company and so he was here... With Violet. How long had they been going together? He didn't count the time that often knowing it was around 3 months since they expressed their mutual feelings for another. So of course he would be here with a date.

His attire was within his comfort level, he wasn't a fan of dress slacks outside of the classroom, leading to his choice of a t-shirt and jeans... but he was talked into donning the shoes and blazer in the end by his little sis. Now then the waiting game. He chose to wall flower until her arrival.


Freddie once again was without his twin brother, who was off doing his own thing again. He however couldn't resist a gathering which tickled his insides at the activity. He didn't dance well but he loved having fun so here he was all dressed up.

Once he arrived, it didn't take long for him to see his one of his familiar friend (Atlas) who seemed to be on their own as well. Ahem. Walking up behind he whispered, "Hey bug, how's it going?" Cue cheesy grin.

[emjay]

SPOILER!!: Benjee

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie

Benjee Marchbanks enjoyed being the center of attention selectively. Championing a gobstones match and holding interviews with the press? Absolutely. He drank all that up and looked forward to every summer season and mentorship because of it. The majority of his Hogwarts years had felt like a certain scrutinizing spotlight that he did not much care for and why he was still very selective with the company with which he kept. It was a harsh line...but it had been an essential one. Most stares prior to Autumn had been a source of insecurity, particularly because of his eye and the insecurities he projected on to things. Riding himself of the eye patch had been the first step...and tonight, while he did not want to be in the ruddy middle of the dance floor, he was certainly not shying away from any attention considering the choice of white attire.

So...middle of the dance floor it was. Usually he only did his dancing in the Great Hall.

"If we must," he groaned in pseudo reluctance, not really all that miserable about attending the dance as some may have thought. He was mostly indifferent to the whole thing, though now that he was here he did find that he liked the atmosphere much better than any shindig any of his peers had thrown over the years. One arm around her wait, his other hand moved to adjust a certain star pendant around her neck since the clasp had come back around front. Smirking just a little at that kiss, he traced his fingers along her shoulder and then down her side to join his other hand at the small of her back as they...danced. It was more like swaying, he supposed, as opposed to dancing...which he actually knew a tiny bit about thanks to being Karleigh's spotter from time to time. Swaying wasn't so hard. "It's not so torturous being here," he replied with an almost playful sigh. "I may even be so inclined to dance with you a lot," he teased while attempting to dip into that very limited dance arsenal of his as he pivoted back from her and attempted to spin her. "We have the rest of the night to do whatever."

His eye did look around for a certain Little Shadow with who he owed a dance to...and also his little cousin, Phoenix. Phoenix would likely not mind a dance with his girlfriend and it would be convenient for himself.

Autumn gave Benjee a sweet smile as he agreed to a dance. And even though his words might have sounded reluctant to the casual observer, she knew he couldn't possibly mind having her arms wrapped around him to take a spin around the dance floor. And she was pretty sure he had a hard time saying no to her. "I promise I'll make it worth your while. I think you might even have a good time," she teased gently. And then pausing a moment to allow him to fix her necklace, her fingers briefly touched the star. "My favorite." It was the perfect compliment to her dress.

Perhaps it was more swaying than dancing, technically, but that was not something Autumn was too fussed about. They were moving to the beat of the music with their arms around each other; that worked for her. "See, I knew you'd enjoy yourself," she smiled wider when he basically admitted as much. And he was there with her, so how could he possibly not have a good time?

She was pleasantly surprised as he moved to spin her, and she took that spin under his arm without missing a beat before pulling her arms around his shoulders again. "Oooh Benjee, pulling out the hot dance moves. Where were you hiding that one?" And here he was pretending that dancing wasn't his thing. "You can have as many dances with me as you want. But yes there are also plenty of other things to do too, since we have all night." She leaned in to whisper something, her eyes catching sight of the photo booths past them over his shoulder. "Oh, we should get our picture taken as a memento of the night."

Autumn pulled her arms tighter around his neck and leaned her head against his shoulder. "Hard to believe we only have about a month left here." Not that she was sad to leave, it was just a little surreal to think about. Something that she wasn't thinking about though - the two more letters that she had gotten in the past week that she still hadn't opened and hadn't yet mentioned. They were stuffed under her mattress to worry about another day.

[Chelliephone]

Dancing in front of a larger selection of his peers was far more intimidating than the strangers at Koen's wedding, but it occurred to Evan rather quickly - he didn't particularly care if he was bad at it and judged for it. Having been in the same family as Noah and Chase, he had learned and accepted very early that he was never going to be to the same caliber as the pair of them - and he'd never love it as much either. He could do some classical dances, and he knew a fair few of Chase's routines from admiration of his elder cousin. But that was about it.

When it came to this particular type of dancing - he was always going to have to just follow his partner. Which was probably pretty helpful than that his best friend happened to be quite good at this. Letting Jude drag him along to the dance floor, Evan glanced around at their peers - taking silent inventory of where all his favorite people were. Large events such as this made him nervous and he'd rather know where he needed to go to find his sisters if he needed. That giant dandelion could come crashing down. Probably not, but maybe.

Spotting Ash, Evan smiled at her before giving a wave towards Cailyn as well. He snorted at Jude's question, turning his attention back towards him. "If you're planning on being able to dance and enjoy the rest of the evening, probably so. This is not my talent."

[sweetpinkpixie]

Well...those words certainly brought another smirk to his face, having zero doubts that she would make good on that promise. The moment shifted quite easily from something heated to more tender as their mutual attention went back to the necklace. His own favorite star being much different but no less applicable here. "We could find it again tonight, later," he suggested softly as they swayed. "Think I saw something set up closer to the lake with a clear view of the sky." He paused a moment, leaning back a bit as his smirk widened. "And by we...I mean see how much you remember from the last time I helped you locate it."

He was enjoying himself, remarkably, and it may even sway him to be inclined to give university parties a go once he got there. Just a couple of examinations next month and then another set the following year from home and he would be there.

Pulling her back to him, his hand slipping along her side and to the small of her back once again, he smirked just a little more and wiggled his brows at her. "Let's just say I am full of surprises." And that was also about it for his back pocket and dance moves, unless somehow basic lifts got involved here...but he did not see that becoming relevant. "I plan on it ... though I do want to suggest that you spare a dance with my little cousin. He is pretty nervous about his first big school shindig and dancing with the most beautiful girl here would really give him a big boost." Phoenix was hardly a quivering flutterby bush, but everything was a first and he had been both eager and anxious throughout the term while he found his footing - it was a logical assumption. He had to turn his head significantly to spot the photo booth, since it was on the side of his bad eye, but he gave an exaggerated sigh as he did. "May as well while we're here. Something for our lockers when we become professionals."

And despite her first few offers, fools the lot of them, he knew she was going to get exactly what she had been hoping for. Autumn had worked too long and too hard up until now for anything less.

Holding her close, Benjee dipped his head to leave a little kiss at the base of her neck and took a moment to consider whether or not he felt...weird about there only being a month left. It was a jarring reminder that there were still a handful of people he wanted to let know of his...plans. "Suppose I find it more weird that we aren't just going home tomorrow...and still have exams coming up," he chuckled. "These sorts of events feel so...final."


ꕤ••┈┈┈┈┈••ꕤ

Atlas had become an apathetic neutral towards most people these days, the unfortunate caveat being that he was a Gryffindor who held on to grudges long after they had become obsolete and irreverent - particularly to the other party. Which, really, much of his loneliness was his own fault. Past observations, seeing how those around him had treated those of like thinking and action, had the Gryffindor walled up quite significantly...and sometimes he could not even explain to his brother why he felt the way he did.

But...in any event...he was transfixed, like a moth drawn to an open flame, with the way the light reflected and highlighted parts of the space in unique ways, and his guard was down as his dormmate approached. Down in the sense that, he was forgetting to be alert to his surroundings and thus the affectionate coo of 'bug' caught him completely off guard and he could have jumped right out of his skin were it not sufficiently attached to the rest of him. "FlOpPiNg pHoEnIxEs," he grumbled, exasperated and tempted to shove Freddie simply for the release of irritation that had suddenly surged within. He did not, however, and managed to take a much needed deep breath while covering his chest with one hand. Yup, heart was acting like it wanted to jump out of his chest. Sheesh. "You...I could have socked you, you know. Sneaking up like that." It was an empty warning, especially since Atlas did not even know how to throw a proper punch and he was even less skilled when it came to duelling. His face did redden a bit, creeping all the way over to his ears, and he straightened a bit to poke and push lightly on his dormmate's cheek to interrupt that grin of his.

It was too much, okay?

"Nice...uh..." Atlas took another moment, trying to calm down from the scare, and looked at Freddie properly. His thoughts were quite muddied presently and his mind blank on where the rest of that thought had been going. Nice...shirt? Blue was a nice color. Suit? Hair? The hair was...nice. "...uh..." His hand reached up to adjust his baseball cap, rubbing it up and down and absolutely making a mess of his blonde hair underneath and found himself almost tempted to turn it around so his face could be hidden a bit beneath the bill of it. "...nice...look..."

[lazykitty]

Naturally, Kalie had avoided any and all planning of the dance, wanting to be surprised by the whole thing. But one couldn't guess it by the way she was dressed. Though, they might've if they'd heard the low whistle the Hufflepuff firstie had let out upon entering the space.

She had headed right towards the dance floor since they were playing her jam. She moved to the beat, not caring who was staring or about the fact that she had no partner. Because that was the only way these things were fun: not caring about the small things.

Let it be known that Alfred Ludovic Devereaux wasn't really one for dances. However, they did present a prime opportunity for both chaos and attention, both of which he liked very much. So, here he was skulking wondering around the perimeter of the dance floor watching for the perfect moment to use the Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder in his pocket strike. Looking completely natural and innocent though. Nope, absolutely nothing to see here, folks. Move along.

[FearlessLeader19]

SPOILER!!: BFF! <3

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chelliephone

Dancing in front of a larger selection of his peers was far more intimidating than the strangers at Koen's wedding, but it occurred to Evan rather quickly - he didn't particularly care if he was bad at it and judged for it. Having been in the same family as Noah and Chase, he had learned and accepted very early that he was never going to be to the same caliber as the pair of them - and he'd never love it as much either. He could do some classical dances, and he knew a fair few of Chase's routines from admiration of his elder cousin. But that was about it.

When it came to this particular type of dancing - he was always going to have to just follow his partner. Which was probably pretty helpful than that his best friend happened to be quite good at this. Letting Jude drag him along to the dance floor, Evan glanced around at their peers - taking silent inventory of where all his favorite people were. Large events such as this made him nervous and he'd rather know where he needed to go to find his sisters if he needed. That giant dandelion could come crashing down. Probably not, but maybe.

Spotting Ash, Evan smiled at her before giving a wave towards Cailyn as well. He snorted at Jude's question, turning his attention back towards him. "If you're planning on being able to dance and enjoy the rest of the evening, probably so. This is not my talent."

Jude was quite happy to lead the dances. He didn’t care that this was something Evan was bad at; he was more than happy to help him learn. There were things his bestie was GREAT at but Jude sucked at. Like rapping. Evan had tried to teach Jude and Jude had failed miserably to learn. Others might be embarrassed of having a dance partner who wasn’t good but he was proud to have Ev as his partner. They’d have a super good time like they did months ago!

He turned to face the other boy, his gaze catching Atlas looking fleetingly in their direction. Jude lifted his hand in a wave of greeting. Then his attention was back to a certain Ravenclaw and he was laughing his soft laugh. “Who says I didn’t enjoy our dance at Ko’s wedding?” Nope, Jude wasn’t going to put such a Charm on his shoes; he’d take the risk because that’s what one did for their closest friend, right? “I know it’s not and it’s fine. I’ve got enough talent for both of us in this aspect.” There was a grin to show he was teasing. His head tilted a bit as he listened to the beat of the music; it was a slowish tune so Jude placed his hands just above Evan’s waist and started to lead them in movements that matched the beat and pace. “You up for spins and all that jazz?’’ the Hufflepuff questioned. He wanted to ensure Ev was as comfortable as possible; Jude knew how he was when it came to certain events.

It was quite easy for Jude to get lost in anything that involved dancing. Which reminded him… there were dances to be done with Keigh, Rea, Desiree, Bella and a few others. Seems like he would be spending the entire night on the dance floor! The thought made him HAPPY!!! His gaze moved to Evan’s face and a thought bubbled up in his mind; there was something he needed to talk to his friend about. It was a delicate topic but hey, their friendship was strong, right? “I don’t know if Lisa told you but I recently gave her some advice and in that moment, I realised that even I needed to take my own advice.” He hesitated, trying to find the right words to continue. “Remember how you thought that Davet and I were together? Before I told you that we weren’t? I um… I was thinking that maybe I should really give him a chance.” He had talked this over with Keigh too and she had encouraged him to give Dav a chance as well. Yes, Jude was his own person and could do whatever he wanted so why was he telling Evan? Honesty was a big thing in their friendship, for one thing. For another… “I’m telling you because I don’t want you to think that you mean so little to me that my feelings for you just went poof. Because they didn’t and they never will… I’ve been waiting for you for almost five years, Ev.” Approximately five long and excruciating years. “You know I hold nothing against you,’’ he added quickly. “Feelings and emotions are complicated, I get that. But I also know I need to move on. Or at least try to.” Jude kept his voice even and never broke his eye contact but on the inside? His heart was a mess but as he had been doing since this year of 2108 had started, he hid his pain. Perhaps later when he was back in his common room with Keigh he’d let it come forth. Deep down, he knew he’d always have feelings for Evan, no matter where their lives took them and even if it meant that Evan just may eventually feel something for someone else. Someone that wasn’t Jude…

[MadAlice]

So, the big dance was here at last. And Violet had actually managed to get a date to it. And what's more, miracle of miracles, no monsters, dark wizards, or prying Ministry officials or Board members had managed to create some new disaster at Hogwarts to spoil it. Finally, a nice, normal year, when Violet could manage to feel like a nice, normal girl (or as normal as a Blackthorne could manage). And not quite a girl anymore, either--young woman was more like it, right? That's why, after much debate, she'd chosen more of a grown up dress for this dance (what was the point of being nineteen if you couldn't go a little more mature for something like this, after all?). Struggling to pick among the dance themes, she couldn't decide on an element, with all their various underlying House connotations, and finally wound up going with an outer space theme in a much brighter color than she usually wore. Her younger uncle had wanted her to wear something schoolgirlish and her older uncle, something more like a royal court dress than a dress for dancing, and her grandfather, pretty much anything that was not so low-cut. But Violet had her own allowance now and was of age and was quite capable of carrying an argument with her family members at this point in life, so she had gotten the dress she wanted.

Quote:

Originally Posted by astrocat

She twirled around once more. She was wearing a twirly dress. She had to twirl every five minutes OR ELSE.

Passing through the dance floor, Violet noticed Ashley twirling around and around in a dress that admittedly asked to be twirled. "Hi, Ashley!" she called as she got hear her. She realized she hadn't spent much time with her friend this year, what with the N.E.W.T.S. and suddenly spending so much time with Caes. Violet felt a bit guilty at this--and this was her last year at Hogwarts, so there was no time to make it up, at least not at school. How did Ash manage to twirl like that without landing in a heap?

But most of Violet's attention was taken up by trying to find Caes. She had a sudden panic attack that he wasn't turning up after all, which she immediately squelched because she knew he wouldn't do that. But where was he? Maybe they should have arranged to come out together from the Common Room, but stupid her, she'd taken so long time to get dressed tonight that she told him to go on and she'd meet him. Well, wait, where would Caes be, all by himself at a dance? If not in tow by his younger sister, he would be...lurking by himself at the outskirts of the room! And indeed, that was where he was.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Charely Potter

Caes ordinarily wasn't one to socialize in a public event unless he had company and so he was here... With Violet. How long had they been going together? He didn't count the time that often knowing it was around 3 months since they expressed their mutual feelings for another. So of course he would be here with a date.

His attire was within his comfort level, he wasn't a fan of dress slacks outside of the classroom, leading to his choice of a t-shirt and jeans... but he was talked into donning the shoes and blazer in the end by his little sis. Now then the waiting game. He chose to wall flower until her arrival.

Looking at his attire, Violet was even gladder that she hadn't picked one of the overly formal gowns her grandfather and uncle had preferred, because Caes had definitely gone the understated route. But Violet thought he looked great, and he looked just like Caes, and she would not want him to dress otherwise. She could not believe that she was here at a Hogwarts dance with a boy she liked, and just hoped that no Acromantulas or evil wizards would show up in the middle of things this time. "Hi, Caes!" she said when she had come right up by him.

[Watson]

Lisa stood at the edge of the dance floor and watched the couples and friends dance on the floor. She figured she couldn’t convince Daniel to dance. She would settle on persuading him to take a photo only. She really wanted to dance. Lisa started swaying, humming to the music.

She watched as Ash danced without a care in the world- spinning and twirling. She smiled, imagining what it’d be like to go dance out there. She loved to dance and she finally felt, emotionally, up to dancing. This term had already been one full of learnings. Jude and Evan received a wave. It was weirdly nice to see the two of them chatting together. She knew that it had been weird for both of them but was glad to see them together having a ball. Vi and Caes were there. In some cases, she learned that she’d been too good of a friend and, in other cases, she’d been a bad friend.

Her eyes landed on Atlas next who seemed busy in conversation with another boy. She gave him a wave and a smile, making note not to interrupt his and his friend’s conversation. She’d head over there soon.

But in the meantime, she’d watch the dancers dance.

[Deezerz]

Serena was impressed. Coming from old traditional pureblood families, dances were part of the social circles. They were much larger, of course, and with a ton more people. So was she nervous? If this was a part of her life, why was her stomach fluttering and her hands cold?

Maybe because she’s never gone with anyone to those dances. Specifically not with the boy she couldn’t stand, but then kissed and could now stand, and liked.

“Did I mention this dress has pockets?” she asked the second time that night as they made their way to the dance floor. Maybe Jasper forgot?

Ugh. Was she making it obvious of how nervous she was?

[ArianaBlack]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Deezerz

Serena was impressed. Coming from old traditional pureblood families, dances were part of the social circles. They were much larger, of course, and with a ton more people. So was she nervous? If this was a part of her life, why was her stomach fluttering and her hands cold?

Maybe because she’s never gone with anyone to those dances. Specifically not with the boy she couldn’t stand, but then kissed and could now stand, and liked.

“Did I mention this dress has pockets?” she asked the second time that night as they made their way to the dance floor. Maybe Jasper forgot?

Ugh. Was she making it obvious of how nervous she was?

Jasper Amir Botros loved a good party.

Time spent with friends, eating food, dancing, and generally having a good time whilst not thinking about homework? Could they do this every year?! It also helped that he liked dancing and could get his hands on a high-end suit easily. He’d much rather dress comfortably, but if he had to, he knew how to clean up well.

Though even then, Serena stole the show. Jas had been sure to tell her that on their walk over to the dance. Red was her color, no doubt. ”Mm, only three times,” he gently teased, moving his hand from the small of her back in order to take her hand, interlace their fingers, and slip their locked hands into one of those pockets of hers. ”You’re right. Super convenient.” He had to check out those pockets for himself, to be sure. Holding her hand was simply a bonus.

And as they made their way towards the dance floor, Serena had all his attention. ”Dance with me?” But rather than wait for her to agree, he pulled her in.

[Charely Potter]

Caes was a patient guy for the most part. Waiting wasn't an unnatural occurrence to him. Luckily the wait wasn't that long, it only felt like a few minutes before he looked up to smile at her.

"Hi Violet, you look.. incredible." Caes found himself feeling a bit warm at such words escaping him. He then reached out to hold her hand. "I uh.. got you this," Retrieving from one of the blazer's pockets a small rose that may or may not have been picked up along the way from the greenhouses. "Hope it's not too much," He wasn't exactly new to giving gestures but at the same time he was new at the 'not wanting to mess up' feeling.


Freddie couldn't help laughing, "Sorry mate, you know I couldn't resist," The Gryffindor likely had to be reminded on the personal space, given his upbringing. He did his own best to respect his friend's wishes... most of the time, ahem. He was just full of affection for his friends.

"Thanks! You look great!" Leaning his hand to rest against the wall, "So, what's the coolest looking guy like you doing here by the wall?" Blinking, "Are you waiting for your uh somebody?" He didn't recall Atlas telling him he was seeing anybody or looking for anybody. But he did get easily distracted by other things occasionally.

Freddie's eyes tried to search for Atlas's particular somebody, noticing Lisa waving, he enthusiastically waved back. "Is that her?" He practically whispered. He thought she looked nice.

[TakemetotheBurrow]

To tell the truth, Nerina hadn’t been sure this whole theme was going to come together. Discussions had been a bit dizzying with so many different ideas being adopted and she couldn’t quite see how they’d all fit at the time. Nothing worse than gaudy decorations. And while it wasn’t often that Miss Moretti was pleased to be proved wrong, this was one of the exceptions. Everything looked incredible. Herself included, of course.

The brunette had channeled 50s glamour for her hair and makeup, a look that was enhanced ten fold by the dress Kinsay had made her. Pearl in color, elegant silk. The Ravenclaw felt like she’d be better suited walking a red carpet than a pathway towards the lake, but she was lucky to be the one showing off her best’s talent. Just how many times could she name drop her best friend when talking about her evening wear? You’d be surprised.

Skirting the edge of the dance floor, Nerina smiled a little. She spotted Val nearby, but her friend was otherwise occupied. For now she’d simply enjoy the scenery and wait for that adorable boyfriend of hers to come claim a dance or two. Or ten. She did so love to dance.

[sweetpinkpixie]

Couldn't resist or didn't want to resist? Was the rhetorical question that would just have to die in the air of Atlas' next exhale. He supposed, ultimately, it really did not matter which it was...particularly since there really was zero chance Atlas would have properly decked Freddie to begin with.

Anyway.

Deadpanning was the vibe as Freddie went on. A natural hype man, so to speak, the blonde found himself wishing the group would just swallow him up. Maybe he could get his wand out and try his luck on that one spell...though knowing him he would accidentally get half the dance floor swallowed up to. So, Hogwarts, you were very much welcome that his wand was remaining in its holster. "Oh...I just came down to..." he paused, slipping his hands into his pockets and rocking back just a little on his heels without losing his balance. Balance that was nearly lost when his dormmate asked THAT of him. Sweet helium, Freddie really was a glass is half full and sprinkled with diamonds kind of bloke, wasn't he? "...me? S-Somebody?" His arms flailed, hand darting out of his pockets, to regain his balance. "...no...I didn't come here with anyone." No date and he was convinced he had no prospects for one either. And, well, he really had not considered the whole date thing until it had been too late AND he had been entirely too in his head...and then also his Gryffindor brand of stubbornness settled in and fueled the desire to not acquiesce to peer pressure and teenager social expectations. "...I was only stopping by to see my fixture in action," he continued, pointing skyward with one hand while he caught a certain Ravenclaw's wave out of the corner of his eye.

It was weird to see her standing all by herself, did she know? Though, considering a past conversation...maybe it wasn't so unusual after all. But also...unusual...where was Daniel Yawn Yoon?

Atlas, not putting much thought into it while also trying his best to not be petty in avoidance, waved back AND beckoned her over (while Jude seemed to be engaged in a serious conversation with Evan) in the same gesture. At least...that had been the plan...until Freddie went and whispered THAT into his ear, the other blonde's breath giving Atlas a little intense series of goosebumps. He really...needed to get a grip and not be so on edge.

"What? No...she...she came here with someone else." A someone who, mutually to a certain degree, hated him. Palms feeling a bit clammy now, a weird wiggle taking over now that Freddie had planted certain attentions, the fifth year found his eyes darting around elsewhere...namely to Violet who he kind-of-sort-of offered a half wave to, but she seemed a little too starry eyed in a different direction. He did want to thank her, again, eventually for the help putting together the dandelion center piece. He, er, hoped she liked the final result.

Atlas turned his attention back to Freddie, though not before his eyes flicked briefly back to Lisa to see if she WOULD be joining them or now, and sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. "What...about you? Who did you come all dressed to impress for?"

Blue...really was a nice color on Freddie.

[Uncle Moose]

Quote:

Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow

To tell the truth, Nerina hadn’t been sure this whole theme was going to come together. Discussions had been a bit dizzying with so many different ideas being adopted and she couldn’t quite see how they’d all fit at the time. Nothing worse than gaudy decorations. And while it wasn’t often that Miss Moretti was pleased to be proved wrong, this was one of the exceptions. Everything looked incredible. Herself included, of course.

The brunette had channeled 50s glamour for her hair and makeup, a look that was enhanced ten fold by the dress Kinsay had made her. Pearl in color, elegant silk. The Ravenclaw felt like she’d be better suited walking a red carpet than a pathway towards the lake, but she was lucky to be the one showing off her best’s talent. Just how many times could she name drop her best friend when talking about her evening wear? You’d be surprised.

Skirting the edge of the dance floor, Nerina smiled a little. She spotted Val nearby, but her friend was otherwise occupied. For now she’d simply enjoy the scenery and wait for that adorable boyfriend of hers to come claim a dance or two. Or ten. She did so love to dance.

So far Moose was pleasantly surprised with how the dance was going. Despite his natural scowl there was glint in his eyes that showed some interest toward the dance floor and he gravitated toward it. While he had seen some good tuxes on some of his fellow classmates, Moose went with more of a traditional suit and tie. It was a Dark Navy colored suit, with yellow horizontal and verticals stripes that looked as though they sparkled slightly under the night sky. Of course he covered it with a drab gray overcoat that hid most of the design beneath it's dull color.

Not quiet yet feeling the music to get him to dance he stood at the edge and looked on. Maybe some inspiration would hit and he could show this School just how good a dancer this Moose truly was. He looked to his side and spotted Nerina also standing at the cusp and moved over to stand beside her. "Hey Nerina." He spoke as he stood beside her. "So far, not bad." He took a look at her. "You look nice. Did you choose an element?" He wasn't sure what element 1950's covered, but maybe she had a very extravagant reasoning behind her decision?

[Watson]

As soon as her gaze left the Gryffindor duo, they landed on two people that she had hoped to avoid a little while longer. Serena and Jasper. How could she not notice them? They both looked great. Instead of being focused on the curly haired boy, her focus was on Serena. Red was really her colour. She looked beautiful beside him. She cast her gaze towards her shoes momentarily to avoid eye contact with them. Thankfully they appeared to be in their own world.

When she lifted her gaze again, she spotted Nerina entering the dance floor, looking magnificent as always. She bit the inside of her cheek before shifting her focus to the ceiling and spotted a dandelion fixture that caught her attention. The way the light emitted from it. It brought a smile to her lips, giving her heart a sense of unexpected relief as she was caught up in its looks. Glancing down from the fixture she saw Atlas and the Gryffindor lad (what was his name? She knew it started with a F... Frankie? Freddie?) next to him. The energy radiating from him made her smile more, forgetting the gnawing jealous feeling growing within her. He seemed really nice. He also looked nice in blue. And Atlas.. His look was expected yet unexpected. He always liked to go against the flow so she wasn't surprised to see the casual attire - she was caught off guard how attractive he looked with the backwards cap. An unexpected nervousness bubbled up inside of her as Atlas called her over to them with a gesture. He and his friend seemed really far away from her in the moment. She'd have to weave her way through the crowd at the edge of the dance floor to reach them.

Feet moved before she could think more on the matter which was a good thing. If she thought more, she would have stayed put. Lisa was glad that she didn't overthink for once.

She walked over and willed herself to be confident. She lifted her chin and squared her shoulders as she made her way over. This was a dance to have fun and, despite, the emotional rollercoaster of her fourth year, she was determined to have fun. The distance was much shorter than what she had originally thought.

Soon enough, she was close to the Gryffindor duo."Hi Atlas!" she greeted, not knowing whether or not to hug Atlas. She really could have used one but she didn't think he was a hugger. Was it getting hotter in here or was it just her? And why did she feel really awkward in this moment? Heart beating weirdly, wobbly jelly legs. "I like your look. You look nice." She had wanted to ask him where Remy was because she had expected the two of them to attend the dance together.

She then turned to Freddie and introduced herself. "Hi! I don't think we've met... I've seen you around. You look dapper." She recognized him from lessons and she knew that he was in the same year as her sister, Maya. "I'm L-Lisa." She stretched her hand out to his to shake it as she had been instructed to do from a young age. It was the polite thing to do but she felt, once again, awkward about doing this. The boy had really nice curly hair and he looked dapper.

Once introductions were done, she tilted her head at the two older boys and offered a curious smirk. "So what are you two doing over here? Planning to join the dancing, plotting to take over the world, or admiring the lights and fixtures?"

[Deezerz]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArianaBlack

Jasper Amir Botros loved a good party.

Time spent with friends, eating food, dancing, and generally having a good time whilst not thinking about homework? Could they do this every year?! It also helped that he liked dancing and could get his hands on a high-end suit easily. He’d much rather dress comfortably, but if he had to, he knew how to clean up well.

Though even then, Serena stole the show. Jas had been sure to tell her that on their walk over to the dance. Red was her color, no doubt. ”Mm, only three times,” he gently teased, moving his hand from the small of her back in order to take her hand, interlace their fingers, and slip their locked hands into one of those pockets of hers. ”You’re right. Super convenient.” He had to check out those pockets for himself, to be sure. Holding her hand was simply a bonus.

And as they made their way towards the dance floor, Serena had all his attention. ”Dance with me?” But rather than wait for her to agree, he pulled her in.

Despite feeling nervous, Jasper’s hand on the small of her back helped Serena relax. It helped her feel more present rather than floaty. She looked up at him, her normally stormy steel blue eyes a calm glimmering sea tonight. Maybe it was the light make-up she was wearing—the mascara on her lashes, the light color dusted on her eyelids, or colored lips—that made her eyes look softer, or maybe that for the first time during this chaotic term, she was feeling at ease.

Jasper’s energy was infectious, too. It was one of the many things she liked about him. She might actually mention that to him one day. Pretending to not like him, those days were behind her. Although, she could still tease him.

The swift manner in which he interlaced their fingers had Serena’s stomach doing flips, and the way he smoothly slipped their hands into her pocket—oomph!

Dead.

“Good things come in three, didn’t you know?” she teased back, giving his hand a squeeze. She had to cool it with the pockets on her dress, but it was just so cool. Fancy dresses and pockets, YES. And like Jasper said, they WERE super convenient. For hand-holding. It was her new favorite use of them.

Dance? “Of cou—!” She giggled involuntarily instead of finishing her sentence as he pulled her in.

DEAD. For the second time tonight. Dead.

“You’re so smooth,” she said, following his lead. Typically, Serena liked to be in control, in the lead, but there could only be one person leading the dance. Also, she wanted to see those dance moves he raved about.

[emjay]

SPOILER!!: Benjee

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie

Well...those words certainly brought another smirk to his face, having zero doubts that she would make good on that promise. The moment shifted quite easily from something heated to more tender as their mutual attention went back to the necklace. His own favorite star being much different but no less applicable here. "We could find it again tonight, later," he suggested softly as they swayed. "Think I saw something set up closer to the lake with a clear view of the sky." He paused a moment, leaning back a bit as his smirk widened. "And by we...I mean see how much you remember from the last time I helped you locate it."

He was enjoying himself, remarkably, and it may even sway him to be inclined to give university parties a go once he got there. Just a couple of examinations next month and then another set the following year from home and he would be there.

Pulling her back to him, his hand slipping along her side and to the small of her back once again, he smirked just a little more and wiggled his brows at her. "Let's just say I am full of surprises." And that was also about it for his back pocket and dance moves, unless somehow basic lifts got involved here...but he did not see that becoming relevant. "I plan on it ... though I do want to suggest that you spare a dance with my little cousin. He is pretty nervous about his first big school shindig and dancing with the most beautiful girl here would really give him a big boost." Phoenix was hardly a quivering flutterby bush, but everything was a first and he had been both eager and anxious throughout the term while he found his footing - it was a logical assumption. He had to turn his head significantly to spot the photo booth, since it was on the side of his bad eye, but he gave an exaggerated sigh as he did. "May as well while we're here. Something for our lockers when we become professionals."

And despite her first few offers, fools the lot of them, he knew she was going to get exactly what she had been hoping for. Autumn had worked too long and too hard up until now for anything less.

Holding her close, Benjee dipped his head to leave a little kiss at the base of her neck and took a moment to consider whether or not he felt...weird about there only being a month left. It was a jarring reminder that there were still a handful of people he wanted to let know of his...plans. "Suppose I find it more weird that we aren't just going home tomorrow...and still have exams coming up," he chuckled. "These sorts of events feel so...final."

Her arms still around him, Autumn turned slightly at mention of the lake, trying to see the area that Benjee mentioned from where they slow danced. "I would like that. It looks very cozy over there too." Once they had their fill of the dance floor, she certainly wouldn't mind getting cozy by the lake and do a little star-gazing. Of course, finding it herself might be a little tricky. She was certain to need his help. "Maybe if you had been my teacher I would have stuck with Astronomy," she added with a slight smirk, settling back against him. It wasn't a subject that came as easy for her as others or one she had much interest in until pretty recently.

She was enjoying herself too, though she knew she would. She liked Benjee's company, of course, and she had a way of making social events fun. She was even sure that there were plenty of eyes on them, as there should be. They made a stunning couple. Autumn wasn't paying all that much attention to the crowd but she did see that Violet had finally gotten there with her own boyfriend. She made a mental note to let her know that her dress was lovely, but later. Her attention was on Benjee right now.

"Oh, sure, I can save a dance for him and totally make his night." And be the envy of all his little first year friends. "Though I do tower over him a bit..." She paused to think about that, being fairly tall herself. "He's cute though. I bet you were just like him when you were a first year." She didn't really know Benjee back then to know for sure, but she could imagine. His exaggerated sigh drew her attention back to him and she reached one of her hands to the side of his face, her fingers gently tracing down his jawline. "Don't you want a picture of the two of us? I think it will be relatively painless," she added with the hint of an amused smirk. Sure, when they were pros. Don't remind her of the blow to her normally unshakeable confidence, not that she was going to speak of it. "I have something better in mind for your locker, actually."

Autumn chuckled too. "You're right. This dance does make it feel like the end of the term." People were going to feel checked out of classes for the summer already, and she still had to sit NEWTs. And Benjee would be taking a few with her as well. "Any last minute things you want to do here before we go?" They only had a limited time to fit any of that in. And she still had a couple things left.

[TakemetotheBurrow]

SPOILER!!: Moose

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncle Moose

So far Moose was pleasantly surprised with how the dance was going. Despite his natural scowl there was glint in his eyes that showed some interest toward the dance floor and he gravitated toward it. While he had seen some good tuxes on some of his fellow classmates, Moose went with more of a traditional suit and tie. It was a Dark Navy colored suit, with yellow horizontal and verticals stripes that looked as though they sparkled slightly under the night sky. Of course he covered it with a drab gray overcoat that hid most of the design beneath it's dull color.

Not quiet yet feeling the music to get him to dance he stood at the edge and looked on. Maybe some inspiration would hit and he could show this School just how good a dancer this Moose truly was. He looked to his side and spotted Nerina also standing at the cusp and moved over to stand beside her. "Hey Nerina." He spoke as he stood beside her. "So far, not bad." He took a look at her. "You look nice. Did you choose an element?" He wasn't sure what element 1950's covered, but maybe she had a very extravagant reasoning behind her decision?

”Moose,” Nerina greeted with the hint of a smile. Let it be known that the brunette was team Christianna in the whole boy drama going on and she’d be sure there was no mistaking her position on this, even in casual conversation. ”Not specifically, though I like to think the pearly sheen of this silk has an ethereal quality to it.” She paused, and then just because they were on the topic, added, ”Kinsay made it. She’s crazy talented, isn’t she?” And if he were to mention how amazing her hair and makeup looked, well, she wouldn’t shy away from mentioning her own talent either.

”Your suit is nice. Trying to impress anyone in particular?” Her mouth quirked as her eyes scanned the room. Where was Miss Rivers, anyway?